NASA has begun the process of securing a new aircraft to continue its parabolic flight program, a unique operation that produces brief periods of weightlessness. Often nicknamed the “Vomit Comet,” these flights are used to simulate microgravity for astronaut training, scientific research, and technology testing. Operations have historically been based at Ellington Field in Houston, Texas, with current contracted flights conducted at various US locations, with flights conducted several times per year. The agency says replacing the current aircraft is necessary to ensure the program remains viable through the coming decades.
Parabolic flight has long filled the gap between ground-based testing and space missions. Each mission allows researchers to experience repeated intervals of reduced gravity without the cost or complexity of orbital launch. NASA’s existing aircraft have supported thousands of experiments, but age-related limitations are increasingly difficult to ignore. A replacement would preserve one of the most accessible microgravity platforms in the world.
NASA Moves To Replace Aging Aircraft Behind Its Microgravity Flights
Credit: NASA
NASA currently contracts with providers like the Florida-based Zero Gravity Corporation, which operates a heavily modified Boeing 727-200 (‘G-Force One’), introduced over 50 years ago. While reliable, maintaining older commercial jets is growing more challenging as parts become scarce. According to NASA program data, each parabolic flight typically performs 15 to 40 parabolas, producing roughly 20 seconds of microgravity per maneuver. Over a single flight, this adds up to more than 10 minutes of cumulative weightlessness.
The agency is seeking an aircraft capable of safely repeating these demanding flight profiles while carrying research teams and experimental payloads. Structural endurance, cabin space, and system redundancy are among the top requirements. NASA also aims to minimize downtime, as the aircraft supports not only internal research but also external users. Universities, private companies, and international partners regularly rely on the program. The document announcing the search for a new provider states:
“The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) is hereby soliciting information from potential sources for Parabolic Flight Services for the Flight Opportunities Program.”
Why Parabolic Flight Remains Essential For Space Research And Aviation
Credit: NASA
Parabolic flight campaigns are widely regarded as one of the most cost-effective ways to conduct microgravity research. A single flight can support dozens of experiments, ranging from fluid dynamics and combustion studies to human physiology. NASA estimates that hundreds of researchers participate in the program annually. For student-led and early-stage projects, these flights often serve as the final validation step before spaceflight.
From an aviation standpoint, the mission profile is unusually demanding. Aircraft routinely transition from approximately 1.8g during pull-up to near-zero gravity at the top of each parabola. This repeated stress places unique loads on the airframe and onboard systems. As a result, only a few aircraft types worldwide are suitable for sustained parabolic operations.
Beyond NASA, parabolic flight has gained importance as commercial space activity expands. Private firms use the flights to test hardware destined for orbit, reducing risk before launch. Demand for microgravity access has grown steadily over the past decade, particularly in biotechnology and materials science.
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What A New “Vomit Comet” Could Mean For The Future Of Microgravity Access
Credit: Flickr
NASA’s parabolic flight heritage dates back to the late 1950s, when early astronauts trained for weightlessness aboard modified military jets. Over time, aircraft such as the KC-135 and later the C-9 became synonymous with microgravity research. The flights’ informal nickname reflects the physical challenge of repeated gravity changes, which can affect even experienced flyers. Despite this, participation demand remains strong.
A newer aircraft could bring meaningful upgrades, including modern flight decks, improved fuel efficiency, and reconfigurable interiors. These enhancements may allow longer missions or expanded experiment capacity. Some industry observers suggest the replacement could also strengthen collaboration with commercial microgravity providers. Ultimately, the choice of aircraft will shape how accessible microgravity research remains for years to come.
In addition to research, the aircraft supports astronaut familiarization and public engagement activities. Maintaining this capability ensures NASA can continue preparing crews while advancing science at a relatively low cost compared to orbital missions.